What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- MedlinePlus; Stools - Foul Smelling; July 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Stool Color: When to Worry; Michael F. Picco, M.D.; May 2010
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Constipation; July 2007
- MayoClinic.com; Pancreatitis; January 2011
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Can Supplements Make Your Stool Smell Different?
It may seem odd or even uncouth to examine your stool. Your stools, however, often reveal health problems you might otherwise miss. Before you flush, note changes in your stool and tell your doctor about unusual odors or composition, particularly if you see blood. In some cases, medications, supplements and high-fat meals are the culprit.
Normal Stools
An ideal bowel movement appears medium brown and has a slight smell. It should be easy to pass, with little strain or discomfort. Occasionally, your stool might have a different hue. If this is the case, consider what you've eaten. Beets or red juice can color your stool red. Iron supplements might color your stool green or black, and anti-diarrheal drugs can lead to clay-colored stool.
- An ideal bowel movement appears medium brown and has a slight smell.
- Iron supplements might color your stool green or black, and anti-diarrheal drugs can lead to clay-colored stool.
Abnormal Stools
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Stool that is dry and appears in small hard-to-pass lumps indicates constipation, which could result from using certain medications or supplements. A lack of fiber, dehydration or problems with the colon and rectum could also cause hard, small stools. Stool that has an intense odor and floats or sticks to the side of the bowl could indicate increased fat content in the stool, or steatorrhea. In this case, supplements are not likely the problem.
- Stool that is dry and appears in small hard-to-pass lumps indicates constipation, which could result from using certain medications or supplements.
Potential Problems
Although diet and supplements are usually the cause of changes in your stool, sometimes a medical condition exists. The possible causes of smelly stools include chronic pancreatitis, intestinal infections, short bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease and celiac disease.
Consultation
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If foul-smelling stools are a concern for you, consult your doctor for advice 1. Be prepared to answer a number of questions to help your doctor make a diagnosis. Tell him when you noticed a change in your stools, whether they are difficult to flush and what other symptoms you are experiencing. It's also a good idea to make a list of any supplements or medications you are using or to take them along. Your doctor will likely request a stool sample.
- If foul-smelling stools are a concern for you, consult your doctor for advice 1.
- Be prepared to answer a number of questions to help your doctor make a diagnosis.
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